The View from a Drawbridge

Another delightful tourist destination that you rarely hear about is Ljubljana in the heart of Slovenia. I have no idea why. If for no other reason, it should be a part of your itinerary simply so that you can say Ljubljana. It rolls off the tongue in a whimsical way. (Listen to it here.)

Not only is the city absolutely gorgeous, here seen from the castle that looks down upon it,

but its symbol is the dragon, so you are treated to dragon sculptures everywhere.

Some very obliging local students posed for us on the dragon bridge.

It’s also home to one of the coolest hostels I’ve ever stayed in, the Hostel Celica. A former prison, each cell was redesigned into cozy accommodations by a different artist, and they’re all unique, hip, funky, and cool. Here’s one.

 A university town, even the graffiti and unexpected art is well done!

A river runs through the center of town, and that means that you get to feast your eyes on several pretty bridges as well. Here are two of the many.

 And the architecture in this town is like nothing I’ve ever seen.

  So if you get a chance to visit this charming city, do not pass it up!